EFFLORESCENCE FAQs
At Tile Cleaning Experts we specialise in efflorescence removal for tiles. Browse our Frequently Asked Questions to find answers to commonly ask questions about our efflorescence services. Some of the commonly question we get asked most frequently include how to prevent efflorescence build up once it has been removed, what is the best way to remove efflorescence and is there is a minimum charge.
If you have any questions that that are not listed in our FAQs for efflorescence services contact us either by email or phone.
What is efflorescence?
Efflorescence (a crystalline, white-like deposit on the tile surface or grout lines) often appears on outdoor tile surfaces and areas that are prone to being wet . It’s formed from water bringing the minerals found underneath the tile surface to the top. Once the water evaporates, a whitish coating appears on the tile.
I have efflorescence build up can in be cleaned and or sealed?
In a word – yes. Efflorescence (a crystalline, white-like deposit on the tile surface or grout lines) often appears on outdoor tile surfaces and areas that are prone to being wet . It’s formed from water bringing the minerals found underneath the tile surface to the top. Once the water evaporates, a whitish coating appears on the tile. It can be removed with specialised cleaning techniques, but it normally caused by a leakage causing water to travel beneath the tiles. It’s therefore important that the cause of the efflorescence problem is resolved. We also recommend having a professional seal it with the highest-quality penetrative water-resistant sealer to stop any more water from penetrating the tiles and grout.
What is the best service you offer that will remove efflorescence?
How can I prevent efflorescence build up once you’ve removed it?
The most cost-effective and efficient method to help prevent efflorescence from reoccurring is to seal your tiles and grout with a high quality penetrating sealer. This creates a water-resistant coating essentially stopping water from penetrating, thus helping to prevent efflorescence occuring again. As it’s a result of leakage causing water to bring minerals to the surface, it’s difficult to identify where exactly the source of the water issue is. In extreme cases, where Tile Cleaning Experts have worked their magic and the efflorescence comes back it’s highly likely that the waterproofing underneath the tiles has failed and a major renovation is required.
Can I just bleach efflorescence?
Effloresce isn’t a discolouration, it’s mineral build up. We highly recommend against even attempting to bleach efflorescence as you may damage the tiled or floor area.
What if efflorescence build up comes back?
In extreme cases, where Tile Cleaning Experts have worked their magic and the efflorescence comes back it’s highly likely that the waterproofing underneath the tiles has failed and a major renovation is required.
How is your service charged?
All flooring specialists charge per square meter. We will ask you for an estimate of the area size that will be serviced when booking over the phone. Our experts will measure each room individually and confirm the dimensions and work prior to starting the job.
What floor types are do you specialise in?
We’re experts in all hard surfaced,natural and stone areas. Some common types we service (but are not limited to) are: ceramic, slate, limestone, travertine, sandstone, bluestone, terracotta, marble, granite, terrazzo, vinyl, concrete and porcelain. You can read more about the properties of these under types of floors’
How do I measure the area that needs to be serviced?
When quoting over the phone, the simplest way to measure the area is to multiply the width and length of the area to be cleaned. E.g. A room that is 2 meters long and 4 meters wide would be 4 x 2 = 8m2 in total. Our experts will determine the exact dimensions when on site and confirm before they start any work.
How do I organise a quote and how long will it take?
Simply, fill in our ‘free online quote’ section and a team member will contact you with the details you provide. In most cases, we can easily provide a quote to you over the phone within 5 – 10 minutes, answering any questions or concerns that you may have. On the day, Tile Cleaning Experts will inspect the area and confirm the quote before starting. In rare cases, we may need to attend the location to provide a quote. This can be discussed with you over the phone.
Will you help me move my furniture?
We ask that you clear the area that Tile Cleaning Experts is cleaning. Tile Cleaning Experts insurance coverage means we are only covered by our restoration services and cannot be held responsible for the damage to any furniture or items.
How can I prepare for a professional to come?
We ask that you move all furniture and items in the area to be cleaned, as well as any obstructing furniture between the main entrance point and the area to be cleaned to allow for our professional equipment and machines. A quick vacuum is appreciated to remove any loose dirt, dust and hair. We also recommend painter’s tape on cornices that may come into contact with the industrial hose (as a precautionary). You can read more about this in our blog section.
What are your hours and availability?
We understand that everyone’s schedule is a little different, so we are flexible in the hours that we work. Generally speaking, we work Monday – Saturday between 7am to 5pm. However, if there is a need for after-hours services we are happy to accomodate. Our technicians can usually attend the property within 2 – 10 days from making the booking at a time that suits you.
Is there a call out fee?
As our expert technicians are travelling to your premises, our call out fee is inline with industry standards, which is charged at $75 + GST if the job does not go ahead.
Is there a minimum charge?
We have a minimum charge of $250 + GST for all metro jobs. This is inline with standard industry rates.
LET US HELP
Our tile cleaning experts go that extra step and advise you on the best method and products to maintain your shiny and clean newly sealed floors.
Contact us today for a free online quote.